How to Remove Outlet Covers and Switch Plates
This simple 15-minute task separates amateur paint jobs from professional ones. Remove all outlet covers and switch plates to avoid paint buildup and achieve clean, crisp edges.
Quick Summary
Time needed
15-30 minutes
Cost
$0-5
Difficulty
Very Easy
Why You Must Remove Covers
Walking into a freshly painted room with paint-caked outlet covers screams "DIY amateur job." Paint buildup on covers is impossible to hide and gets worse with each repainting.
Common Shortcut: Some DIYers try to tape around covers instead of removing them. This saves 10 minutes but creates paint ridges, tape residue, and an obviously amateur finish. Just remove them.
Removing covers takes 15-30 minutes for an average room. It's one of the easiest ways to make your paint job look professional.
What You'll Need
Tools
- •Flathead screwdriver
- •Phillips screwdriver
- •Multi-bit screwdriver (optional)
Organization
- •Plastic bags or container
- •Painter's tape
- •Permanent marker
- •Phone camera (for photos)
Step-by-Step Removal Process
1. Turn Off Power (Safety First)
While you're only removing the plastic cover, it's safer to work with power off. Accidents happen—screwdrivers slip, covers are cracked, or wires are loose.
Safety Note: Flip the breaker for the room you're working in. Test outlets with a lamp or phone charger to confirm power is off. This takes 30 seconds and prevents potential shock.
2. Document Complex Switch Setups
Before removing anything, take photos of multi-switch plates or dimmer configurations. You'll thank yourself later when reinstalling.
Pro Tip: Take a close-up photo of any switch plate with 3+ switches. Note which switch controls what (left controls ceiling fan, middle controls overhead light, etc.).
3. Remove All Cover Plates
Most covers are held by one or two screws. Work systematically around the room so you don't miss any.
Technique:
- •Check if screws are flathead or Phillips—some are mixed
- •Turn counterclockwise to loosen screws
- •Hold plate with other hand as you remove last screw
- •Gently pull plate away from wall—don't force if stuck
- •If paint-sealed, carefully cut paint film with utility knife
4. Organize Screws (Critical Step)
Lost screws are the most common frustration when reinstalling. Use one of these professional methods to keep everything organized:
Method 1: Thread Back In (Best)
After removing the cover, thread each screw back into the electrical box. Screws stay with their outlets, can't get lost, and are ready when you need them.
Method 2: Tape to Plate
Stick a piece of painter's tape to the back of each cover and press the screws into the tape. Each plate keeps its own hardware.
Avoid: Dumping all screws in one container. They're often different lengths or thread sizes. You'll waste time sorting when reinstalling.
5. Inspect Plates for Damage
Now's the perfect time to check if any plates need replacing. Fresh paint with old, yellowed covers looks terrible.
Replace If:
- •Plate is cracked or broken
- •Yellowed or discolored (common with white plastic)
- •Has paint buildup from previous paint jobs
- •Screw holes are stripped or damaged
- •Style is outdated (almond color is from the 80s/90s)
Standard outlet covers cost $0.50-2 each. Replacing them all makes a huge difference for minimal cost.
6. Protect Exposed Outlets
With covers removed, protect outlet openings from paint drips and overspray.
Protection Options:
- •Painter's tape: Cover the outlet opening completely
- •Plastic bags: Small bags taped over entire outlet box
- •No protection: If you're careful with roller and brush (riskier)
Note: Remove tape protection before paint fully dries to avoid pulling off fresh paint when removing.
Storing Removed Covers During Project
Your covers might be off for several days while you prime and paint multiple coats. Store them properly to avoid damage or loss.
Best Storage Method
Place all covers in a labeled cardboard box in another room. Stack carefully to avoid scratching. If you've taped screws to plates, they're ready to go. If screws are threaded back into boxes, nothing to store.
Consider Cleaning While Off
If keeping old covers, wash them while they're off the wall. Dish soap and warm water removes years of grime. Let dry completely before reinstalling. Yellowed white covers won't clean back to white—replace those.
Pro Tips
Don't Strip the Screws
Use the right size screwdriver. A too-small or worn screwdriver will strip screw heads. If a screw won't budge, try a different screwdriver or tap the plate edge gently to break paint seal.
Upgrade Your Covers
Standard covers cost under $1 each. Upgrade to screwless covers ($3-5 each) for a cleaner look, or switch to decorator-style if updating to rocker switches. New covers make new paint pop.
Check for Loose Outlets
With covers off, check if any outlets or switches wiggle. Tighten the mounting screws (top and bottom of outlet) while you have access. Loose outlets pull away from wall and look bad.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I turn off power before removing outlet covers?
Yes, always turn off power at the breaker box before removing outlet covers. While you're just removing the plastic cover, accidents can happen. It's especially important if any covers are damaged or if you'll be working near the electrical components.
What's the best way to keep track of all the screws?
The professional method is to thread each screw back into its electrical box after removing the cover. This keeps screws with their original locations. Alternatively, use a labeled bag or container. Take photos before removal if you have complex multi-switch setups.
Can I paint over outlet covers instead of removing them?
No, never paint over outlet covers. Paint buildup makes them difficult to remove later, creates an unprofessional appearance, and paint can drip into electrical boxes creating safety hazards. Always remove covers before painting—it only takes 15-30 minutes and makes a huge difference in final results.
Ready for the Next Step?
With covers removed, it's time to start protecting your room by taping edges and trim for clean paint lines.